Amanda Abbington 'deeply disappointed' with BBC amid Giovanni 'protection' fears
Amanda Abbington is said to be furious with BBC bosses over her thoughts of Giovanni Pernice's bullying probe.
The actress called out the Italian dancer's behaviour on Strictly Come Dancing, claiming he had bullied her during their partnership. An investigation has since been held over the allegations, with the report due to be shared in the coming days.
However, while Giovanni claimed he was delighted to have landed a new role on the Italian version of Dancing with the Stars, Amanda is reportedly fuming at what she may call a "whitewash" report. A friend of Amanda's has gone on record to say the star is "deeply disappointed" with how the BBC has handled the claims.
Speaking to the Sun, the source said: "As well as the probe taking so long, it feels like they are protecting Giovanni to save themselves and ignoring not only her experience but that of other women who’ve bravely come forward." The insider went on to say Amanda was feeling "tired, upset and very angry" with how her serious complaint has been handled by the organisation. "She is worried there will be a predictable whitewash and others will, once again, suffer from aggression and abuse," the source added.
Amanda and Giovanni had been paired together as contestants on last season's Strictly. However, they abruptly quit the show after five weeks. At the time, health reasons were cited for the sudden exit, but comments later revealed that Amanda felt the professional dancer had been abusive to her during their training sessions. Giovanni has always protested his innocence, but he will not return to the upcoming series of the show.
In July, Amanda claimed she has been diagnosed with PTSD following "inappropriate behaviour" from Giovanni. She told The Sun on Sunday: "I found Giovanni’s behaviour unnecessary, abusive, cruel and mean. I couldn’t sit back and let him do that to other people. I had to think long and hard about making a complaint because I knew the backlash I would get. But I would not have been able to live with myself for future people going on that show."
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